NWC to present Everything is Wonderful

Northwestern College’s theatre department will present “Everything is Wonderful” Nov. 12, 14 and 19–21 in the DeWitt Theatre Arts Center’s England Proscenium Theatre. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Nov. 14.

Written by Chelsea Marcantel, “Everything is Wonderful” tells the story of a young woman who returns to her Amish family following the tragic deaths of her brothers, only to discover that the man responsible is now living with them. As he seeks forgiveness and she demands justice, the family must confront painful questions about faith, love and belonging.

Laurel Koerner, professor of theatre at Northwestern, directs the six-member cast in this contemporary drama that explores both the beauty and challenges of life within a religious community. “While the setting is a present-day Amish colony, its themes of family, faith, grief, harm, forgiveness and belonging are deeply relevant here,” says Koerner. “Ultimately, this story is one of hope, with moments of joy, humor and glimmers of light shining in darkness.”

The production addresses challenging subjects, including sexual violence, trauma, addiction and child loss, and is recommended for ages 14 and older. Northwestern is partnering with local support organizations to provide information about available resources in the theatre lobby.

“Our hope is that the play’s honest approach to difficult topics will be a blessing to see carefully staged with truth and love,” says Koerner. “Acknowledging deep wounds is part of tending them. The story reminds us that we need one another, and healing happens best in community.”

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. They go on sale to Theatre Patrons Oct. 28 and to the general public Oct. 30. Tickets can be reserved at nwciowa.edu/tickets, by calling the box office at 712-707-7098 or by emailing [email protected].